Capital Country Guides Attractions Events in New South Wales

Alpine is located on the Sydney side of Mittagong and boasts rich countryside and berry farms. The atmosphere, character and old world charm of the villages which surround the major towns create an aura of peace, tranquillity and seclusion in the quaint country lanes, rolling hills, mist, birds and trees allowing one to reflect on the more leisurely pace of bygone days.

Berrima is widely recognised today as the best preserved example of a Georgian village on the Australian mainland. A fortunate series of events created the Berrima we see today. 1831 to the 1860s was a time of promise and growth, which came to an abrupt end when the railway bypassed the village in 1867. For the next hundred years there was little or no development in the village.

Today's visitor to Berrima can experience the quiet charm and romance that comes from those features of the village which remained frozen in time and which now so wonderfully portray those earlier times. (See the Historic Berrima page for a map and list of these features.

It wasn't always quiet and charming. From the 1950s onward, cars and trucks were taking more passenger and freight traffic away from the railway. The village quietness was increasingly disturbed by heavy traffic along the Hume Highway (previously known as the Great Southern Road).

Travellers and especially those journeying between Canberra and Sydney, found Berrima a convenient stopping point for a break and a meal. To these travellers, Berrima was mostly a strip of eateries and shops straddling the highway and catering to the passing trade.

The increased highway traffic was at best a mixed blessing to Berrima. While some businesses were benefiting from the passing trade, crossing the main road had become a hair-raising experience for pedestrians. Most people in the village were delighted when, in 1989, Berrima was bypassed by the South Western Freeway.

The village is no longer merely a stopping point on the way to somewhere else. Today's Berrima is a delightful destination in its own right - for a day trip, for a weekend, or for a much longer holiday.

Binalong was an area settled by Europeans in the 1820’s, decades before official records by Colonial authorities became apparent. Originally called
“Bennelong”, the name was changed at the suggestion of local residents to Binalong, an Aboriginal word meaning “Towards a High Place”.

With its close proximity to “Lambing Flat” (Young) goldfields, Binalong was an obvious stopping place for Cobb & Co coaches and equally, a lucrative area for bushranger operations. Infamous bushranger “Flash” Johnny Gilbert, was shot dead by troopers in a nearby paddock on the 13 May 1865. His grave is on a hillside close to town along the Harden Road.

The village of Bookham was named by Lady Jane Franklin, wife of the Governor of Van Diemens Land, Sir John Franklin whilst travelling overland from Melbourne to Sydney in 1839.

Inspiration for “Banjo Paterson’s classic poem “Old Pardon the Son of Reprieve”, came from his childhood memories of races on the Bogalong Racetrack, which today is an open paddock a short distance from the village. Close by is the site of Julian’s old home, where bushrangers often sought or demanded food and shelter during that romantic and dangerous period of the 1860’’s.

There are still two fine churches constructed of locally quarried granite still in the village of Bookham. They are the Uniting Church (c1926) and the Catholic Church, St Columbas (c1910).

Bookham is in close proximity to the Murrumbidgee River via the Childowla Road, which is the beginning of the Murrumbidgee Kayak Trail to Wagga Wagga.

The “Running of the Sheep” down the main street of Boorowa during the Irish Woolfest often reminds visitors of the “Running of the Bulls” in Pamplona.
This event takes place on the Sunday of the October long weekend and celebrates Boorowa’s Irish Heritage and is fun for all the family.

Located on the Lachlan Valley Way only an hour and a quarter North of Canberra and three and a half hours from Sydney, Boorowa is a vibrant country
town. Boorowa's wide main street is reminiscent of a bygone era with beautiful old world lighting, exquisite paving and spectacular roses. Immerse
yourself in Boorowa’s heritage by following the shamrocks on the Shamrock Trail where each building on the map is depicted with a brass plaque and an
explanation of its heritage. Or take a stroll along the Riverwalk where you might be lucky enough to see a platypus, or see ducks in the pond. Boorowa
duck pond is one of the three places in the world with a water jet the other two are Canberra and Geneva.

Many shops are retained in their original state as they were in the days of the emporium. St Patrick’s Catholic Church resembles a miniature cathedral with
its Italian marble and stunning stained glass windows one of which is dedicated to the Irish Liberator Daniel O’Connell. Visit our excellent galleries, with
paintings, art & craft and collectibles for that perfect gift with the country flavour. Visit Frogmore where Sarah Jane Country Crafts and the Spring Valley
Farm which grows stunning flowers have their home or take a drive to Rugby, Reids Flat and Rye Park, the home of the Old School Retreat.

Enjoy the true country experience in Boorowa, located between Yass and Cowra on the Lachlan Valley Way. The Boorowa Shire is composed of the
charming towns of Boorowa, Rye Park, Reids Flat, Rugby and Frogmore. Galleries and cafes are open all weekend or stay a while in our country
accommodation to suit your budget, from pub accommodation to quality bed and breakfasts.

Boorowa was one of the first areas to be settled, after pioneers crossed the Blue Mountains, by ex-convict cousins Roger Corcoran and Ned Ryan. Many
of their relatives followed them to the area and their descendents are colourful reminders of Boorowa’s strong Irish connections.

There is plenty to do and see and Boorowa, The Art & Craft Co-op has a wonderful array of home made opportunities and is also the Visitor Information
Centre. Wander down the street to Paddy Donohoe’s which has gifts and historical counters not to be missed and is one of the last operating businesses in
its original state. Meander along the street to Patrick Carmody's newsagency which used to be the model shop, the only one of its kind. Wooden gifts for
every occasion are on display at the Glenara Gallery. Stroll along the Riverwalk and spot the platypus. Drive out to Sarah Jane Gifts at Frogmore or visit
Spring Valley Flower Farm. Follow the Shamrock Trail around the historical buildings in town including St Patrick’s Church which is like a miniature cathedral
with beautiful marble and stunning stained glass windows. The Museum portrays a slice of colonial history.

The village of Bowning was one of the earliest settlements in the district.

The village grew during the laying of the railway in 1876. The historic railway station is a stately building much larger than any other in the region, which lends credit to the belief that at the time of its construction it was intended to be a main stop on the line. It is now a private residence, located across the road from the Commercial Hotel.

Other historic buildings include the “Troopers Cottage” on the Binalong Road and the old Cobb & Co Coaching Station on Bowning Road. The coaching station was built sometime between 1850 and 1870.

The local school was amongst the earliest established schools in inland New South Wales. It was founded in 1849.

On the outskirts of the village is Bowning Hill with an altitude of 796 metres above sea level. Reference was made to the outstanding landmark in the Journal of Hume & Hovell during the journey of exploration in 1824.

Nestled in the rich volcanic soil of a majestic river valley, nearly 700 metres above the sea, Bowral is rich in rural tradition and famous for its elegant, four-season, European lifestyle.

It's where the great Don Bradman spent his formative years and where the author of Mary Poppins began creating her magical tales and where you'll find one of the most expensive suburbs in regional Australia, just a couple of kilometres from a brickworks - the famous Bowral Brickworks.

It's where you'll find unique cafes and boutiques for cosmopolitan tastes and one of the oldest cultivated gardens in Australia.

The entire township of Braidwood has been classified by the National Trust.

Nineteenth century architecture includes houses and businesses which have served the town since the goldrush days. Preservation is encouraged by the local council and guided by the NSW Heritage Council.

Braidwood was named after surgeon and pioneer Dr Thomas Braidwood Wilson, out of respect for his work improving conditions for convicts, and went on to boom as the commercial centre for the area's goldfields in the 1850's.

Halfway between the Australian Capital city of Canberra and Batemans Bay on the South Coast of New South Wales, lies a town where history is a way of life.

Here the townsfolk live and work in restored 19th Century buildings, carrying out their everyday lives within the glorious gems of the past.

Braidwood has maintained its integrity as a functioning regional centre, serving the community in much the same way as it has since the earliest days of settlement and during the gold rush boom.

This quality makes Braidwood a unique attraction, endowing the town and its surrounding district with an authentic character and charm.

Visit Bribbaree for an authentic taste of Country Australia. Bribbaree is located 50 kilometres west of Young. Visit the Railway Hotel at Bribbaree and meet some of the locals.

Bundanoon is on the southern edge of settlement of the Highlands, on the edge of the deep valleys and escarpments of the Great Dividing Range. Today it is the fourth largest residential area in the Highlands, and attracts vast numbers of tourists.

There is a well established artists' colony among its residents, and many of the old guest houses have been restored and opened for today's visitors. Behind its sleepy old-world charm, Bundanoon is a vibrant community. Visitors can still enjoy the grand beauty of the National Park, and relax and enjoy the mountain air. There are plenty of things to see and do for adults and kids alike. The main street is very busy during Market Day (first Sunday of every month), and on weekends and holidays. There are often steam train excursions from Sydney throughout the year, and the town is a favourite destination for car and other clubs for weekend stays. Brigadoon, the Bundanoon Highland Gathering (held every April) is one of the biggest of its kind in the world, and not to be missed.

The most difficult decision for the visitor is whether to do a day trip, indulge one self and stay for a few days, a week or more.
Although it attracts so many visitors, Bundanoon retains the quiet, sleepy, old-world atmosphere of yesteryear, and is the perfect place to wind down from the hectic pace of modern life.

The historic village of Bungendore dates back to 1837 and lies in a beautiful valley a mere 20 minutes from Queanbeyan. Boasting attractions such as local vineyards and Lake George, Bungendore is a traditional Australian country town with a relaxed bush village atmosphere.

The historic village of Bungendore dates back to 1837 and lies in a beautiful valley a mere 20 minutes from Queanbeyan.

Boasting attractions such as local vineyards and Lake George, Bungendore is a traditional Australian country town with a relaxed bush village atmosphere.

Settled earlier than Goulburn, Bungonia lost its commercial significance after Major Mitchell made the decision in 1833 to re-route the Sydney-Goulburn
Road and bypass the village.

Bungonia is now a pleasant stopping place on the way to the Bungonia State Recreation Area. The village boasts many fine examples of early historic buildings. These include: St Michaels Catholic Church (1849), Courthouse (c. 1834), Christ Church Anglican (1839), Hope Inn (1837-71), Victorian Inn
(1872-1919) and the Post Office (1942-1974).

A further 10 kilometres from the village is the Bungonia State Recreation Area, one of the oldest conservations reserves in NSW. Adventure caving is one
of Bungonia's best known activities, with the caves here being amongst the deepest on the Australian mainland. They should however only be entered by
well equipped, experienced cavers.

Bushwalking is also popular with spectacular views being available from a number of lookouts in the area. Longer walks can be undertaken to Bungonia
Gorge and the Shoalhaven River. Rock-climbing, canyoning, abseiling and picnicking are other recreation activities within the Bungonia State Recreation
Area.

Burrawang is a picturesque and secluded country village which is worthwhile visiting just to get away from the city

Take a peek between the hedgerows, look out from the top of Region Street - or more comfortably, from the terrace at the Burrawang Village Hotel, and the view of the magnificent countryside will be enough reward for your visit.

The Old Village Store in the main street is a must to see. Built in 1867 its amazingly preserved interior was a delightful reminder of slower times long past. Sadly, it recently closed after trading for over a century - a victim finally of the motor car and supermarket age.

There is a cafe in the main street (open Thursday to Monday) where you can eat on the veranda, or inside by a log fire.

One of Burrawang's most popular attractions - the sandstone 19th century schoolhouse - has been magnificently restored. In the past this building was one of Burrawang's most famous attractions.

Burrawang has some first class bed and breakfasts and self-contained accommodation which will allow you to escape from the aggravations of everyday life, and immerse yourself in the total relaxation of country living.

Burrinjuck Dam

The first major dam built for irrigation in New South Wales was Burrinjuck Dam. It is situated in the upper catchment of the Murrumbidgee River, approximately 60 kms from Yass. The name Burrinjuck comes from the Aboriginal words “Booren Yiack”, meaning “Precipitous Mountain”.

Early Days:
In 1891, the drought-ravaged Murrumbidgee Valley was nominated as an ideal location for irrigation development. After devastating droughts in 1901 and 1902 State Parliament approved the establishment of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme. Burrinjuck Dam was constructed to provide water for the scheme.

Construction started in 1907, but due to delays caused by the shortage of labour and materials during World War 1, the original design was not completed until 20 years later, although it was able to provide water for irrigation in 1912.

With the dam largely completed, a massive flood in the Murumbidgee Valley in 1925 sent water more than a metre deep pouring over the crest of the main wall. Although Burrinjuck was barely damaged by the torrent, the size of the spillways was increased and the height of the main wall raised to prevent future devastation. Work on these alterations and other improvements began in the 1930’s. Again, construction was delayed by a world war but finally, Burrinjuck Dam was completed in 1956. It was the first major dam built for irrigation in NSW and when construction began in 1907, it was the fourth largest dam in the world.

The Structure:
Burrinjuck is a ‘mass gravity dam’. This type of dam holds back stored water by using its own weight to withstand the pressure from the water. The basic structure of the dam wall is similar to a gigantic brick wall. It is made of massive concrete blocks, which were cast in situ and contains huge granite boulders.

Following an analysis of the largest possible flood that could occur, the spillway capacity of Burrinjuck Dam was re-evaluated and the spillways were upgraded and enlarged. One hundred and fifty steel cables were inserted into the structure at bedrock level (at maximum length of 130 metres) and each cable was post tensioned to 1,100 tonnes each.

Burrinjuck is one of the first dams in NSW to have environmental flow releases based on inflows.

Facts:
Holding capacity: 1,025,000 million megalitres, (almost half the volume of water in Sydney Harbour).

Surface area: 5,500 hectares (more than 8,000 football fields.

Catchment area: 13,953 square kilometres, larger than the catchment area of the whole of the Snowy Mountains.

Height of the wall: 97.8 metres (taller than the highest sail on the Sydney Opera House).

Length of crest: 233 metres.

Width of base: 58 metres.

Weight of concrete: Approximately 950,000 tonnes.

Irrigation: 1.2 million ML per year for crops in the MIA.

See also Goondah - Burrinjuck Railway

Bywong, a locality in Palerang Shire (N.S.W.) lies about 30 km northeast of Canberra, between the Yass River and the southern part of Weereewa (Lake George).

Bywong Hill, located about three and a half kilometres northeast of the village of Sutton, is a prominent local landmark. The hill is identified on a map of southeast New South Wales published in 1837, and was included in a dictionary of Australian place names, published in 1848.

Capital Country is one of the oldest established areas in the country; this region combines the vitality and energy of Canberra with the tranquility of an established rural landscape.

Close to Sydney and wrapped around Canberra; it is set in one of Australia's handsomest landscapes, a fascinating mix of heritage towns and villages, stunning country gardens and beautiful waterways.

This is a place to revel in, to revisit the past and refresh the spirit.

You'll delight in tasting local fare, making the most of scenic walks, exploring caves, visiting galleries, helping out on a working farm, mixing with the locals, discovering early colonial buildings and spring gardens.

One of the highlights of this area are the magnificent gardens that come in all shapes and sizes, from a few hanging baskets of bloom to acres of landscaped gardens with many open to the public.

There is always something around the corner to surprise you at Capital Country - an interesting little road, a glorious garden, a delightful little restaurant or an exquisite antique shop.

Canberra itself is packed with national landmarks and the city boasts a lively cultural calendar and is abundant with great restaurants and cafes. A short drive away you'll find quaint colonial villages and some of Australia's most fertile farming country. There are orchards, wineries, and renowned wool and cattle properties.

So, visit Capital Country and enjoy a breath of fresh air.

Collector is a small historic township, now by-passed, between Goulburn and Canberra and located 228km from Sydney.

The area was first settled by Europeans when T.A. Murray was granted land in 1829. By 1837 Murray had built himself a substantial home and that same year a postal service began from Goulburn across the flat plains to Lake George and down to Yass. This inevitably meant the development of staging posts and the towns of Gundaroo and Collector sprang up.

Collector's history is the history of the roads which passed through it. When horse and bullock were the main means of transportation the town prospered as it was a day's journey from Goulburn. It was during this time that it had five inns and a number of stores. When Canberra was chosen as the national capital the town benefited as the Barton Highway, later to become the Federal Highway, passed through the town and consequently was kept in good condition. Today the Federal Highway by-passes the town but it is still worth visiting for the historic Bushranger Hotel and the memorabilia associated with Ben Hall's bushranger gang.

Other places worth visiting include:
* Lynwood Cafe
* Collector Gallery
* Lemon & Onion Cafe

Crookwell is a fine example of a large Country town with many of it's buildings dating back to its origins in the mid 19th century.

The original Aboriginal name of Crookwell was "Kiamma", meaning "good fishing ground". An abundance of sparkling streams are good for trout fishing. There's even a Fly Fishing School for learning or just brushing up on your skills.

There is a large range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets including caravan parks, farm stays, hotels, motels, bed and breakfast.

Exeter, named by James Badgery, who had arrived in Sydney in 1799 and for 20 years had successfully farmed in the Bringelly region. His farm here was called 'Exeter', after the town in England near where he grew up. Exeter was later given to the surrounding area.

Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre, in the northern section of the park, has been especially designed to cater for the thousands of visitors coming to the region. You'll find picnic and barbecue facilities there, as well as a café with an extensive menu, all in a natural setting within the park. Several walks around the area cater for people of all ages and ability with a special focus on people with a disability.

Located in the northern section of Morton National Park, this award-winning visitor centre is the starting point for parks on the South Coast and in the Southern Highlands.

Morton National Park is still largely in its natural state covers 154,000
hectares. Attractions include waterfalls, Morton National Park, resirvoir, fishing and picnic areas.

Galong village is the centre of an historical area which today is a major grain producer within the Shire. Galong's strong Irish background is embodied by its historical Cemetery - a Mecca for tourists.

Goulburn is a part of quintessential Australia, etched in history, a blend of pristine nature and city vitality.

Take a leisurely diversion off the highway and uncover the myriad treasures hiding in this thriving rural gem. The district has diversity unexpected, with a range of experiences to suit your taste.

Unearth the heritage of Australia’s first inland city - rich in tales of our nation's pioneers and incredible escapades of the infamous. Architecture and bush settlements showcase the district's pride and personality.

Scenic Crookwell offers peaceful cool-climate gardens and crisp sweet air - the top of the tablelands. Or take a deep breath and feel the adrenalin of the district's action - it’s up to you, but remember to....expect the unexpected.

We're perfectly positioned - only two hours from Sydney and less than an hour from Canberra, and just over an hour to the coast.

As Australia's first inland city, Goulburn is a regional rural centre incredibly rich in heritage and natural beauty. Goulburn has a thriving cultural community of performing and traditional artists as well as world-class racing facilities providing a year-round calendar of exciting events. These, together with a range of attractions and other activities, make Goulburn and surrounds suitable for anything from a short break to a longer holiday.

Goulburn and the surrounding towns and villages combine all the benefits of city services with a country lifestyle and hospitality.

Gundaroo is a small historic village, an example of a typical 19th century Australian village. Its unique character, constructed in the period 1860-1890, is special because it does not suffer from urban sprawl.

Situated in the Yass River valley, Gundaroo is a typical century-old township surrounded by a gently rolling countryside and distant wooded hills. The main street is mostly preserved in its original character, with building styles and materials including slab huts, wattle and daub, stone and locally fired brick.
The National Trust has defined the village as being of historic significance and it has been classified as an Urban Conservation Area.

Gunning is the centre of 'The Shire of Small Villages', settled in 1820s. It is an old transport and wool growing centre offering heritage experiences with a peaceful, friendly rural atmosphere. Gunning is located 1 kilometre from the Hume Highway just over two hours from Sydney and 45 minutes north of Canberra.

Harden-Murrumburrah nestled amid the 'Hilltops' district - the softly rippling hills of the Southwest Slopes region of New South Wales. It is an easy 340 kilometres drive from Sydney (three and half hours), 285 kilometres from Wollongong, 125 kilometres from Canberra and 135 kilometres from Wagga Wagga. The Burley Griffin Way slices through Harden-Murrumburrah linking Sydney and Wagga Wagga, Griffith and Adelaide. This is a fast, alternative scenic route between Melbourne and Sydney, via the Olympic Highway and Wagga Wagga.

The villages and localities of Galong, Jugiong, Wombat, Cunningar, Kingsvale, Prunevale, Nubba and Aurville are within Harden Shire, and all are interesting places to visit. Today the district produces wheat, canola, wool, lamb, beef, cherries and stone fruit, olive oil, mustard seed oil, vegetables, honey and premium red and white wines.

Harden-Murrumburrah is a convenient and tranquil base to relax, to explore the region or attend events in nearby towns such as Binalong, Boorowa, Cootamundra, Temora, Gundagai, Yass and Young - all less than an hour away.

Harden Shire offers scenic countryside, historic attractions, sporting activities, events and boutique outlets selling arts, crafts and fresh local produce. Local wines, fruit in season, eggs, virgin olive oil, mustard seed oil and distinctive flavoured honeys are of exceptional quality and freshness. The historic village of Murrumburrah celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2008.

Harden-Murrumburrah is nestled amid the 'Hilltops' district - the softly rippling hills of the Southwest Slopes region of New South Wales. It is an easy 340 kilometre drive from Sydney.

Harden-Murrumburrah is a convenient and tranquil base to relax, to explore the region or attend events in nearby towns such as Binalong, Boorowa, Cootamundra, Temora, Gundagai, Yass and Young - all less than an hour away, and all with their own character. It's also a good place to break a long journey and rest.

Kingsvale is the production centre of the stone fruit industry within the Shire.


During Spring, the countryside is alive with the blossoms of the many varieties of fruit trees. Many properties offer produce from their orchards, and a visit to the various orchards and vineyards is a delight to our many regular tourists.

The historic village of Lake Bathurst dates from 1826 and today stands as an attractive, unspoiled oasis on the Goulburn plains. Located 29 kilometres south of Goulburn, travellers pass through Lake Bathurst en route to Braidwood and Batemans Bay or to Canberra via Bungendore (tourist drive no 8).

The village consists of St. John's Church and Cemetery dating from 1860, several bed and breakfasts and a function centre and tea rooms.

Macquarie Pass National Park is part of the Illawarra escarpment south of Sydney. It contains a diverse range of habitats and wildlife including several rare and threatened plant and animal species. The steep sandstone ridges and gullies are topped by cliffs, and the park supports heathland, woodland, tall open forest and significant rainforest areas. It is an excellent bushwalking and picnicking area, with spectacular scenery and waterfalls.

Marulan is located 15 minutes north of Goulburn, on the Hume Highway and has the honour of being the only town, city or village in the world situated on the 150 degree Meridian. This is the meridian used as the basis for Australian Eastern Standard Time. Marulan was first discovered by Europeans in 1798. By 1820 it has blossomed into a village, providing essential services for pioneers. To this day, Marulan retains its unique service characteristics with a number of eateries and specialty shops and a country pub offering a warm country welcome and pub stay accommodation.

Mittagong township is the gateway to the Southern Highlands and appeals as a base for the numerous bushwalks including one of Australia's most spectacular walks, the seven-day Barallier Track to Katoomba. It is a town with historical significance, famous for it's bygone iron ore connections.

Mittagong is a country town with a village atmosphere supporting the local rural community.

The town has grown into a vibrant community of small business, eclectic restaurants, cafes and nearby wineries as well as light industry, complimented by many groups pursuing echoes from the past including vintage cars, carriage driving, antiques and artisans using time honoured skills.

If it is antiques you interested in then look into Moss Vale, known as the antique capital of the Southern Highlands.

Moss Vale is central to the Highlands and all other villages and attractions. The town centre and old streets offer a range of interesting historic buildings and residences.

The town is surrounded by lush farming areas and the spectacular natural scenery of this highland area. Like the other towns and villages in the Southern Highlands, Moss Vale is central to a great array of natural attractions such as Fitzroy Falls, Wombeyan Caves and national parks.

Moss Vale itself also offers plenty of delights for the visitor. Leighton Gardens in the centre of the town are renowned for their colourful displays of many different blooms and treasured also as a place to relax and enjoy the pleasant climate.

The historic village of Murringo lies some 24 kilometres due east of Young where the Boorowa Road drops gently to a well-watered valley. First settled in 1827, it was one of the earliest settlements west of the Great Dividing Range and the buildings that remain are a realistic reminder of those days.
After Surveyor Larmer's visit of 1849 Murringo, then known as Marengo, was gazetted as a village in 1850 and a surveyed plan drawn up for its future growth.

The historic buildings of Murringo include the Christ Church Anglican Church, built in the 1860's; the Marengo Hotel, licensed in 1856; the police station built in 1880; the public school built in 1870 with a stone residence completed in 1879; the Plough Inn built before 1860; and the post office which was opened in 1857 and which in the 1880's also had a telegraph office.

The whole village is a unique historic enclave well worth preserving.

Penrose is located in The Southern Highlands between Bundanoon and Marulan.

Penrose village is fringed by the State Forest. The Sylvan Glen Guest House has a nine-hole golf course, paintball and restaurant set in a picturesque valley.

Queanbeyan prides itself on being a country-styled city. Close to Canberra and en-route to the Snowy Mountains and the New South Wales South Coast,
it is a popular stopover location for family trips. With plenty of places to visit and family activities, Queanbeyan is a destination in itself.

Queanbeyan is the birthplace of several national sporting heroes, including Formula 1 driver Mark Webber, David Campese of Rugby Union fame and
Olympic gold medallists Megan Marcks and Suzy Balogh. With plenty of places to stay, family activities and an array of eateries, Queanbeyan can entertain
for a day or a week.

Queanbeyan, part of Capital Country, is conveniently located within this diverse, exciting region, only 15 minutes from Canberra, the National Capital and 298 kilometres south east of Sydney. Enjoy the many attractions in Canberra whilst staying in Queanbeyan.

The site of Queanbeyan, New South Wales was first viewed in 1820 by three explorers, Charles Throsby Smith, Joseph Wild and James Vaughan whilst searching for the Murrumbidgee River. Queanbeyan, considered by many as the birthplace of the National Capital, has many old buildings still standing, some of which are open to the public.

Robertson is still a true country village with wide streets and ample parking. There are pleasant village walks; you can stroll through Woodlands, beside a
pretty stream beyond Hampden Park; explore the original Rainforest of the Yarrawa Brush; or visit the Heritage Railway Station in the heart of town with
regular Exhibitions at it's Fettlers Shed Gallery.

Sutton Forest has a significant place in early Australian history, being one of the first settlements (1820s) in the new lands discovered outside the outer limits of the colony of Sydney. There are interesting buildings to see, and reminders of early history in the cemeteries, look for the graves of the bushranger and troopers at All Saints, and of other early settlers at St. Patrick's c.1880 - although the graveyard is earlier.

Tarago village provides some examples of early architecture. The Tarago Railway Station dates from 1884 and is an unaltered example of a small country
railway station.

Tarago is situated on Tourist Drive 8 from Goulburn to Canberra.

A heritage in stone best describes the village of Taralga, evident from a drive through the street revealing the splendid buildings made from stone. Taralga was settled prior to 1843, when it was reported to have two houses, an orchard and a small area sown with wheat.

Taralga has strong connection to the merino sheep, with the famous John Macarthur having a large property, Richlands, in the area. In fact, Taralga’s Main Street, Orchard Street, marks the place where the Macarthur family orchard once stood.

Places of interest in Taralga include Wombeyan Caves, the Taralga Historical Society Museum open Sundays. Group tours available.

Tuena is an old historic Gold mining tow. Gold still to be found, get all the gear you need from Parsons General Store. You can even buy a bag of dirt for $2 and find speckles of GOLD.

On the 19th October 1824, Hamilton Hume and William Hovell passed through the Yass Plains on their expedition to Victoria. The road between Yass and Wee Jasper was declared the shortest way to travel from Sydney to the Kiandra goldfields in the 1850’s, when thousands of fortune seeking Europeans and “Celestials” (Chinese) used what must have been a bush track, prior to the development of the current surveyed road.

As the Wee Jasper Road descends towards the Murrumbidgee River, panoramic views of the valley and the stored waters of Burrinjuck Dam unfold. Clear views of limestone rock formations and extensive folding; millions of years old can be seen in the cliffs arising from the river.

The most romantic origin of the name Wee Jasper comes from folklore and is attributed to an early resident, McBean, an old Scot, one of the early settlers. McBean, so the story goes, arrived home one day with “Wee” (Scottish for small), “Jasper” (Gems) in his pocket.

The Goodradgbee River, formerly called the “Little River” is an outstanding trout stream that meanders through the ranges from its source high in the Snowy Mountains.

Australia’s best known poet, Andrew Barton Paterson better know as “Banjo” called Wee Jasper his home during the early 1900’s. His property was “Coodravale Station” located on the Yass side of the Goodradigbee River.

Some of the charm of early Wee Jasper including limestone buildings survive. On the right as you cross the bridge is the former Police Barracks, c1880 now the Stables Tavern and Restaurant. Further on the right is the school residence, formerly the Police Station and then at the intersection is the local school opened in 1899.

There are numerous limestone caves in the Wee Jasper Valley, the best known being Carey’s Cave, which is open to the public for inspection. Visitors can also enjoy luxury accommodation, cabin accommodation, camping reserves, the Hume and Hovell Walking Track, fishing, fossicking and caving.

Wollondilly is a popular destination for visitors, yet the name is often unfamiliar until memories stir with the mention of more prominent features such as Razorback Range and Burragorang Valley, or towns like Picton, Appin and Warragamba.

The district is rich in Aboriginal and European history. A colourful tapestry interweaves the Dreamtime legends of the Gundagurra and Tharawal people on a backdrop of gorges, ranges and plains with a rural patchwork created by the white settlers who followed the first fleet's famous straying cattle to the Cowpastures.

The village of Wombat is renowned for its cherry production and was an historic gold mining area with a living history display contained in the historic Wombat Hotel.

Yass Valley is located an easy 45 minute drive from Canberra. Yass Valley has its own unique charm and country friendliness, you can be assured of a warm welcome when you visit the Valley. During the early 1800's, the natural beauty and superior agricultural land of the Yass district led famous explorer Hamilton Hume and the poet Banjo Paterson to settle in the district.

Today, the main street of Yass is brimming with architectural treasures reminiscent of early settlement days. Many of the wonderful heritage features of
Yass are best visited on foot.

Historic Yass Valley has its own unique charm and country friendliness. It is conveniently located just three hours drive from Sydney, six hours from Melbourne and 40 minutes from Canberra. No matter what you come to see and do in Yass Valley one thing is certain, you will receive a warm, genuine country welcome.

During the early 1800s the natural beauty and superior agricultural land of Yass district led famous poets and explorers including Banjo Paterson and Hamilton Hume to settle in the district. Today, the main street is brimming with architectural treasures reminiscent of early settlement days.

Since settlement as ‘Lambing Flat’ in 1826, Young’s history has evolved through the discovery of gold in 1860 and subsequent riots against Chinese miners to become a thriving town that offers unique attractions and a wealth of accommodation and dining facilities to suit the needs and tastes of every budget.

Young is the ‘Cherry Capital of Australia’ and boasts many cherry and stone fruit orchards. Young is also part of the ‘Hilltops’ region synonymous with producing quality cool climate wines and local produce. Four cellar doors offer tastings and sales of fine wines and quality produce is available in abundance.

Think of Young and cherries spring to mind. That’s natural enough for a town that is renowned for this bright red little fruit. The cherry harvest starts approximately in the first week of November and continues through to the New Year, and brings hundreds of people to town to pick and to pack the fruit. Young is proud to be known as 'The Cherry Capital of Australia'.

With over 400 hectares of vineyards planted throughout the Shires of Young, Harden and Boorowa, this emerging premium wine growing area has come to be known as the 'Hilltops' Wine Region.